10 Things to Do in Santa Cruz Cemetery, Timor-Leste
Santa Cruz Cemetery, located in the capital city of Dili, Timor-Leste, is a place of rich cultural and historical significance. It is the final resting place of the victims of the 1991 Santa Cruz Massacre, and a symbol of the nation’s struggle for independence. With its unique mix of memorials, monuments, and religious sites, the cemetery is a must-see for visitors to the Timor-Leste. Here are 10 things to do in Santa Cruz Cemetery.
1. Visit the Monument to the Santa Cruz Massacre Victims: This memorial is located in the center of the cemetery and honors the 271 people who were killed in the 1991 massacre. The monument consists of a large cross, with the names of the victims inscribed on the sides.
2. Explore the Memorials and Monuments: The cemetery is home to a number of memorials and monuments dedicated to the victims of the massacre, as well as to the nation’s struggle for independence. These include the Monument to the Victims of the Indonesian Occupation, the Monument to the Victims of the Santa Cruz Massacre, and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier.
3. Attend a Memorial Service: Every year on November 12th, the anniversary of the massacre, a memorial service is held at the cemetery. The service is attended by government officials, religious leaders, and members of the public, and is a solemn reminder of the nation’s past.
4. Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary: This Catholic church, located in the cemetery, is a popular pilgrimage site for visitors to Timor-Leste. The church was built in 1882 and is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary, the patron saint of Timor-Leste.
5. Explore the Cemetery’s Religious Sites: In addition to the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, the cemetery is home to several other religious sites. These include the Monument to the Victims of the Indonesian Occupation, the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, and the Monument to the Victims of the Santa Cruz Massacre.
6. Learn About the History of the Cemetery: The cemetery has a long and fascinating history, and visitors can learn more about it by visiting the cemetery’s museum. The museum is home to a number of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the cemetery’s past.
7. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours of the cemetery are available, and are a great way to learn more about the history and significance of the cemetery. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insight into the cemetery’s history and its importance to the nation.
8. Visit the Grave of the Unknown Soldier: Located in the center of the cemetery, this grave honors the unknown soldier who died in the Santa Cruz Massacre. The grave is marked with a simple cross, and is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who died in the massacre.
9. Explore the Cemetery at Night: The cemetery is open 24 hours a day, and visitors can explore the cemetery at night. This is a great way to experience the cemetery in a unique and peaceful setting.
10. Take a Moment to Reflect: The cemetery is a place of solemn remembrance, and visitors should take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who died in the Santa Cruz Massacre. It is a powerful reminder of the nation’s struggle for independence and a fitting tribute to the victims of the massacre.
Santa Cruz Cemetery is an important part of Timor-Leste’s history and culture, and is a must-see for any visitor to the nation. With its unique mix of memorials, monuments, and religious sites, the cemetery is a powerful reminder of the nation’s past and a fitting tribute to those who died in the Santa Cruz Massacre.